creative. sincere. loving. fun.
The 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® Presented by Coca-Cola® officially kicked off inside the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center with its inspiring theme, “We Love Us,” setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend celebrating Black excellence, culture, beauty, music, and entrepreneurship. Festivalgoers explored a dynamic lineup of daytime experiences, including the We Love Us Marketplace, […]
Cast members from The Chi made a standout appearance at the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, held July 4–6 in New Orleans. Actors Lynn Whitfield, Luke James, Director Traci A. Curry, and Journalist Ari Chambers were on hand for a special screening and intimate fireside chat as part of the ESSENCE Film Festival®. They also […]
Emayatzy Corinealdi made a striking appearance at the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola, held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans on July 5, 2025. The actress shocked the audience when she hit the stage in a bold, neon green paneled tank knit mini dress paired with sleek white […]
Disney brought the magic back to the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ in a big way! Teaming up with some of the world’s top Black storytellers, Disney showed up to celebrate and spotlight the voices shaping culture through powerful storytelling, bold creativity, and innovation. Guests were treated to unforgettable panels, immersive pop-up experiences, surprise character meet-and-greets, […]
Day two of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® embarked on a sunrise to sunset celebration with the debut of ESSENCE Hollywood House™ and Suede: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone) in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Select highlights from yesterday’s events included: The Global Black Economic Forum HQ® returned to this year’s festival as […]
The Black Excellence Brunch held an installment of their iconic event on Sunday, July 2, 2023, in partnership with Hallmark Mahogany and Crown Royal during the ESSENCE Festival weekend. The brunch was held at the beautiful and scenic Riverview Room’s rooftop in the French Quarters overlooking the Mississippi River. The Black Excellence Brunch honored the […]
The Essence Festival returned to New Orleans this past weekend, powered by a star-studded lineup that featured Ms. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott and Megan the Stallion! The multi-day festival was held at the Caesars Superdome. Day 1 was full of excitement with performances by Old School Rappers like Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One, Juvenile, Slick […]